Name: Creamy Lemon Basil Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; Juice and zest of 1 lemon; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

There’s something magical about the combination of creamy lemon basil pasta. Imagine twirling your fork through a luscious, velvety sauce that dances with the brightness of fresh lemon and the aromatic charm of basil. sweet and savory ham glaze The moment you take that first bite, you’ll be transported to a sun-soaked terrace in Italy, with flavors bursting like confetti at a party.

This dish isn’t just food; it’s an experience! I remember the first time I made creamy lemon basil pasta for my friends during a dinner party. The smiles on their faces were worth every bit of effort. perfect side for pasta dishes Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or impressing guests, this flavorful creation is sure to leave everyone asking for seconds. light and flavorful lettuce wraps.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This creamy lemon basil pasta is easy to whip up even on busy weeknights
Its vibrant flavors will make your taste buds dance with delight
The beautiful presentation makes it perfect for serving guests or enjoying solo
Plus, you can customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins for added versatility

I vividly recall my friend’s delighted reaction when I served this creamy lemon basil pasta at our last get-together—it was a real crowd-pleaser! For more inspiration, check out this Burrata Caprese Salad recipe.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Pasta: Use your favorite type; fettuccine or penne works beautifully for holding the sauce.
Heavy Cream: This gives the dish its rich creaminess—don’t skimp on quality!
Fresh Basil: Always opt for fresh leaves, as they provide an aromatic burst that’s irreplaceable.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds depth of flavor—avoid powdered garlic if possible.
Lemon Juice and Zest: Freshly squeezed juice and zest brighten up the entire dish—it’s essential!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a salty, umami punch that melds perfectly with the creaminess.
Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings elevate all the flavors—season generously!
Olive Oil: For sautéing garlic and adding richness—go for extra virgin for best flavor.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Cook Your Pasta Perfectly: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving some pasta water.

Sauté the Garlic to Perfection: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds—be careful not to burn it; burnt garlic is sad garlic!

Create That Creamy Sauce: Pour in heavy cream while stirring frequently. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer gently until slightly thickened, about 3-5 minutes.

Add Zesty Flavors!: Stir in the fresh lemon juice and zest along with salt and pepper to taste. The aroma should be heavenly at this point!

Toss It All Together!: Add cooked pasta into the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss everything together until well coated—add reserved pasta water if needed for extra creaminess.

Add Fresh Basil and Cheese: Stir in chopped fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and blended throughout the dish—this is where things get deliciously aromatic! garlic parmesan potato packets.

Serve immediately with extra grated Parmesan on top if desired; enjoy this creamy lemon basil pasta hot from the pan!

You Must Know

This creamy lemon basil pasta is a delightful dish that combines zesty flavors with a rich texture
It’s perfect for quick weeknight dinners, and the freshness of basil elevates every bite
Plus, it’s a hit with kids and adults alike, making family dinners enjoyable!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve creamy perfection, start by cooking the pasta al dente, then prepare the sauce while it’s boiling. This ensures everything comes together perfectly in one delicious moment.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap the pasta for zucchini noodles or add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein. Experimenting keeps this dish exciting every time you make it! For more inspiration, check out this Marry Me Chicken Pasta recipe.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove with a splash of cream to restore creaminess.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use fresh lemons and basil for maximum flavor impact; dried herbs won’t cut it here
Stirring constantly while adding cheese ensures a smooth sauce without clumping
Always reserve some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency as needed

Cooking this creamy lemon basil pasta reminds me of summer evenings spent on my patio, surrounded by laughter and good food. Friends raved about my culinary skills that night, which made me feel like a kitchen rock star!

FAQ

Can I make creamy lemon basil pasta vegan?

Absolutely! Use cashew cream or coconut milk instead of dairy products for a vegan version.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños during cooking for an extra kick!

What can I serve with creamy lemon basil pasta?

Pair it with garlic bread or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal experience!